Coffee is a beverage that brings together people from all corners of the world, and in each region there are unique traditions surrounding its preparation and consumption, a reflection of its rich history.
It is not necessary to be an expert to drink a good coffee and much less to enjoy it. Below we present some concepts that we believe are practical for you to connect with your own experience, regardless of the way in which you drink your coffee.
Although these concepts are used to evaluate coffee, we encourage you to engage with your senses and fully embrace the moment when you savor your coffee. Let it be more than just a beverage: let it be an opportunity to connect and enjoy.
Here are some of the elements we consider key to appreciate a cup of coffee:
Aroma:
This distinctive smell is the first thing we are likely to notice. As the aroma amplifies and you align yourself with your coffee, you can smell the fruity, sweet, floral, and/or smoky notes. This act requires full attention but the important aspect that matters here is that it smells good to you.
Acidity:
This flavor is usually associated with coffee beans grown at higher altitudes. It is a first sensation of coffee flavor that is perceived as lively, tangy, spicy, bright, fruity, bubbly at the front of the mouth. Connect with the sensation in your mouth to recognize the acidity.
Body:
Also known as “mouthfeel”, body refers to the texture of the coffee. Coffee can be described as “heavy-bodied” when it is rich or intense or “light-bodied” when it is thinner and less viscous. Connect with the sensations in your tongue and palate to identify the body.
Flavor:
A subjective sensory description of the aromatic and taste characteristics of coffee. Sweet or bitter, earthy or chocolaty, herbal or floral, there are many options available to suit individual tastes.
Information:
We are sure that having information about your coffee (WHO, HOW, WHEN and WHERE) helps to improve the experience and helps to appreciate your cup of coffee. Starting with the producer. This producer’s story and yours meet at this very moment. At this exact moment you and another person in another part of the world have an element in common and this moment is unique and unrepeatable, like all moments, after all.
The meditative approach to your cup: for those who are interested in having an experience of absolute calmness.
Improving your coffee-drinking experience through mindful and calm observation of your body’s reactions is a simple yet effective approach. By paying close attention to how your body responds to coffee, you can tailor your consumption to suit your preferences and optimize your enjoyment. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Choose a calm and distraction-free environment: Find a quiet corner or create a peaceful atmosphere where you can savor your coffee without interruptions. Eliminating distractions allows you to focus solely on your body’s signals and enjoy the present moment.
2. Start with a clear mind: Before taking your first sip, take a few moments to clear your mind and set an intention to be fully present. Let go of any stress or worries, allowing yourself to fully engage in the sensory experience of drinking coffee.
3. Observe your initial reactions: As you take your first sip, pay close attention to the immediate sensations in your body. Notice the taste, temperature, and texture of the coffee. Observe any initial reactions like changes in heart rate, warmth spreading through your body, or perhaps an energizing effect.
4. Monitor your body’s response: Continue to drink your coffee slowly, taking small sips. Observe how your body reacts over time. Does your heart rate increase? Do you feel more alert and focused? Are there any changes in your mood or energy levels? Be aware of these responses without judgment or attachment.
5. Reflect on your preferences: As you become more attuned to your body’s reactions, start reflecting on your preferences. Do you enjoy the stimulating effects of coffee, or do you prefer a milder experience? Are certain flavors or aromas more appealing to you? Use this self-awareness to guide your future coffee choices.
6. Adjust your coffee intake: Based on your observations, you can make adjustments to your coffee consumption. If you find that a large cup of coffee makes you jittery or anxious, try reducing the serving size. Alternatively, if you enjoy the energizing effects, you may choose to have coffee in the morning to kickstart your day.
7. Practice gratitude and appreciation: Throughout the process, express gratitude for the experience of enjoying a cup of coffee. Appreciate the flavors, the warmth, and the pleasure it brings you. Cultivating gratitude enhances your overall experience and promotes a positive mindset.
By adopting a mindful and calm approach to drinking coffee, you can deepen your connection with your body’s reactions and preferences. This heightened awareness allows you to make conscious choices that optimize your coffee-drinking experience, ensuring that each cup brings you joy, satisfaction, and a moment of mindful indulgence.
